On hand to receive the award were Soccerstars UK directors, former Derby County and Nottingham Forest defender Darren Wassall and former Derby County midfielder Pat Lyons.

The FA Charter Standard Scheme is the FA’s kitemark for quality and any club, school or holiday scheme provider can achieve it.

As the first private holiday scheme in the county to achieve the award, Soccerstars Uk has FA qualified coaches, who have CRB Enhanced checks, are First Aid trained and are fully aware of Child Protection Procedures. They offer a quality coaching experience in a safe environment, with the emphasis on learning through the enjoyment of playing for children of all ages.

Jon Woodward, County Football Development Officer said: "Soccerstars Uk are making a massive contribution to the development of young players in Derbyshire. The scheme is the first private enterprise in the county to achieve the award, and offers a safe and enjoyable environment for children to start and continue their involvement in football."

Gary McAllister, the former Leicester City, Leeds United, Coventry City and Liverpool midfielder, says organisations like SoccerstarsUK are vital – as they help introduce football to youngsters in a fun environment.

McAllister, who made 842 appearances and scored 145 goals during his 23-year professional career, said: “You do not see as much emphasis on football in schools anymore. There are not as many school teams, not as many playing fields. Any opportunity to get kids introduced to the game is vital. This is where they start loving the game. "

MacAllister is perfectly placed to endorse SoccerstarsUK – as he has even sent his own six-year-old son Oliver to their Saturday morning clubs. “Oliver loves the game and has been on courses on some cold, wintry mornings. But I’m not ramming football down his throat – he is just progressing in his own way.”

Darren Wassall added: “The hard work starts here. We may have achieved the FA Charter Standard but we’ve got to make sure we maintain these high standards we set ourselves.”

For more information on the FA Charter Standard Scheme for your club, school or scheme, click here.